Dog Flu

Did you know that your dog can get the flu? It’s true. It usually affects dogs that are confined in close quarters with other dogs, such as dog shelters and breeding kennels. Older dogs are especially susceptible.

Since the virus is airborne and can attach itself to non-disinfected surfaces, dogs can become infected after a visit to the groomer or the dog park. The virus is contagious between dogs, but according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), it cannot spread from dogs to humans….More at Dog flu 2012 – Examiner.com

The symptoms of dog flu are similar to kennel cough and a blood test is required to diagnose it. Symptoms of dog flu include the following: coughing, sneezing, runny nose, fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, and, in severe cases, vomiting, diarrhea, and pneumonia. If you suspect your dog may have the dog flu, take it to your vet immediately.

You can help prevent the spread of dog flu by disinfecting surfaces dogs may come in contact with, limiting trips to places where other dogs have been, and contacting your vet to see if there is a vaccine available.